Dear Wayne, Nick, and family-
I am so saddened to learn of Maureen's passing. I have to balance that with the knowledge that she has been fighting a mighty battle and that she is free of that now. I know for sure that you have all taken extraordinary care of her, and that you saw to some bit of daily joy for her and that she knew she was cared for with love, grace, and commitment. You all are models of what many of us, including me, find difficult to have the courage to do. Many blessings on all of you, for doing what you could, every day, to show your love to her.
Maureen was my friend, colleague, and truly a centering influence for me in all the years we worked together at Puget Sound Bank and Key Bank. We weathered many storms and we grew together in the process. She was always a calming influence to my tendency to "jump in and think about a plan later" approach...I loved her for that.
I told Maureen at one point that she is one of the bravest people I ever met. When she discovered someting about herself that she wanted to work on, she went after it- no matter how scary it felt or how unsure she was. She took action , and she was a success every time. I admire her courageous spirit, and she inspired me unfailingly.
Mauren also had one of the kindest hearts I ever encountered. I remember her giving her restaurant leftovers to the homeless as we walked the cold streets on a visit to Cleveland, Ohio (we called it "The Center of the Universe" !!). She was an avid volunteer, and touched many lives through her advocacy for children and those who are underserved in life. She gave of her time and her sweet spirit freely.
Nick...you are the answer to Maureen's prayers- it was a journey for her to find you, and the greatest joy of her life was in her delight as a parent to YOU. Wayne- Maureen's joy at finding you as her life partner was always evident in how she talked about you, and how delighted she was to marry you. Maureen made amazing choices...hold onto her belief in you, and let it carry you forward- live life knowing you honored her.
One of my favorite Maureen stories was around her "Analyzing" style- she wanted to be sure of things, checked every deatil, and while she didn't speak up often, when she did, she had thought it through. One day she asked me what I thought the dumbest question I could ever ask her was. (I, of course, had no idea what that might be...). She said, "it's are you sure??" And then followed it up with "of course I am!!"
So. As she made the choice to head on to the next place, I know. She was SURE. And that's how I will treasure her in my heart.
My fondest condolences and heart goes out to you all. Love you, my beautiful, brave friend, Maureen. ♥️